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hello i am new to linux recently bought a server it has fedora installed, i need to replace the cd drive with a dvd burner/reader. where can i buy one that supports linux

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As asked about a DVD burner for a Fedora server, the short technical answer is that Linux itself rarely restricts which consumer optical drives will work. and touched on that — the kernel includes drivers for the common ATAPI/SATA and USB bridge chips used by most burners. The practical choice is driven by the server hardware: whether there is a 5.25" bay, a slimline connector, an available SATA header, or whether an external USB drive is required for a headless machine.

When buying, match the drive to the server form factor and interface:

  • Internal tower/rack servers: standard 5.25" SATA burners are the simplest fit. Check bay height and whether the drive will be in a hot-swap caddy.
  • Laptops or low-profile servers: look for slimline drives or an external USB solution.
  • Headless or remote servers: external USB burners are often easier to attach and remove.
    Also confirm the media formats needed (DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-R DL, etc.) and that the seller specifies a standard SATA or USB mass-storage interface rather than a proprietary enclosure.

Quick checks after installing a drive (commands available on Fedora):

dmesg | tail -n 50
lsblk
cat /proc/sys/dev/cdrom/info
# if tools installed: wodim --devices

If the device is not detected, verify power/data cables and load the SCSI CD-ROM module (modprobe sr_mod). For burning and ripping, common Linux tools include growisofs/dvd+rw-tools, wodim, Brasero, and K3b.

Retailers: mainstream electronics stores or online PC retailers will have suitable models; the deciding factor is physical/interface fit rather than Linux support.

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Member Avatar for rch1231

Any CD/DVD that will work with Windows will work with Linux. They are generic like hard drives and use the BIOS for communications standards.

Member Avatar for nonshatter

Pretty much any CD/DVD burner will work with a Linux system. You should just double check that there is a linux-supported driver for it.

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